The Malaysian French Chamber of Commerce & Industry (CCI France Malaysia – CCIFM) commemorated its 35th anniversary during the Malaysia–France Gala Night 2026, held on 30 October at the Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur. The event gathered more than 400 business leaders, senior executives, government representatives, and members of the Malaysian–French business community, underscoring the Chamber's long-standing role in fostering bilateral trade, investment, and business cooperation.
Hosted by Datuk Zainal Amanshah, Honorary Chairman of CCIFM, and Mr. Richard Fostier, President of CCIFM, alongside H.E. Marc Abensour, Ambassador of France to Malaysia, the celebration was further honored by the presence of YB Tuan Sim Tze Tzin, Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), representing YB Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry.
Established in 1991, CCI France Malaysia has evolved into a key business platform connecting French and Malaysian companies, supporting market entry, facilitating investment, and strengthening economic cooperation. Today, more than 600 French companies operate in Malaysia, supporting over 30,000 jobs and contributing to the country's industrial, technological, and economic development. From aerospace, energy, and advanced manufacturing to digital technologies, healthcare, and professional services, French companies continue to play an important role in Malaysia's economic transformation. As Malaysia strengthens its position as a regional business and investment hub, CCIFM remains committed to helping French companies establish and expand their operations while leveraging Malaysia as a strategic gateway to Southeast Asia.
A major highlight of the evening was the CCIFM Excellence Awards 2026, recognizing outstanding achievements, innovation, entrepreneurship, and contributions to Malaysia–France business relations. Six awards were presented: Technip Energies for Outstanding Achievements – Large Company; Iraya Energies for Outstanding Achievements – SME; Di Tullio & Sons as Entrepreneur of the Year; TotalEnergies for Corporate Social Responsibility; Schneider Electric & Air Selangor for France–Malaysia Smart Partnership; and Chanel for Image of France. These awards celebrated the diversity and dynamism of the French business community in Malaysia, from multinational corporations and innovative SMEs to entrepreneurs and strategic partnerships.
The anniversary celebration featured entertainment hosted by Malaysian comedian Gajen Nad, a special musical performance by Dato' Sheila Majid, and energetic entertainment by Zeppo Youngsterz. Guests enjoyed signature cocktails from Monin and Pernod Ricard, and a lucky draw with prizes sponsored by Air France–KLM, Club Med, and Ayvens, including Economy and Business Class return tickets to Paris. The Gala Night was made possible through the support of corporate partners, including Platinum Partner BNP Paribas and Gold and other Corporate Partners such as Airbus, Arkema, Ayvens, Chanel, JLL, L'Oréal, Michelin, Rotortrade, Safran, Schneider Electric, STMicroelectronics, Technip Energies, TotalEnergies, Air Liquide, Cegos, CMA CGM, Iraya Energies, and Stellantis. Their support reflects the strong engagement of the French business community and its commitment to strengthening economic ties between France and Malaysia.
Beyond business development, CCIFM continues to advance its environmental and corporate social responsibility initiatives. Launched in 2024, the Chamber's reforestation programme in Sabah's Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary has reached 600 trees planted in 2026, progressing towards its target of 1,000 trees by 2029. Supported by the Malaysian–French business community, the initiative contributes to habitat restoration and biodiversity conservation, with the planted trees estimated to offset approximately 15 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually. This long-term commitment reflects the Chamber's ambition to generate positive environmental and social impact alongside its mission of supporting sustainable business growth.
As the Chamber enters its 36th year, it remains focused on expanding business opportunities, facilitating market access, and supporting French and Malaysian companies in developing long-term partnerships. With more than three decades of experience and a network of over 320 member companies, CCIFM will continue to serve as a catalyst for bilateral trade and investment, reinforcing Malaysia's position as a strategic regional hub for French businesses in Southeast Asia. For a visual recap of the celebration, View the Gala Night 2026 Photo Album.
